Month: March 2024

Eisenhower’s Insite: Eisenhower’s Letter on the Space Race and America’s Lunar Odyssey

(This is an excerpt from an upcoming book on the Borman Collection in the EAA Museum. This section, Frank Borman and the Collier Trophy, along with the rest of the book, is due to come out this Spring.  Paying Patreon subscribers get a FREE copy when it comes out this Spring as a thank you for support. Join to read this section plus get access to Interactive Virtual Reality Spacecraft Tours at Spacecraft Interactive Virtual Museum | creating Interactive Virtual Museum Exhibits | Patreon )

As we journey through the corridors of history at the EAA Museum, let us pause to reflect on Eisenhower’s view regarding the space race, and why he believed it was imperative to approach this celestial challenge with caution and restraint.

Eisenhower, a seasoned military leader who rose to the rank of five-star general during World War II, brought a wealth of strategic acumen to the presidency. His tenure in the Oval Office was marked by a steadfast commitment to preserving peace and stability in a world rife with Cold War tensions.

When President Kennedy delivered his stirring call to action in 1961, pledging to send a man to the Moon and return him safely to Earth before the end of the decade, Eisenhower’s response was measured and contemplative. Drawing on his military experience and strategic mindset, Eisenhower cautioned against the temptation to engage in a reckless race to the stars with the Soviet Union.

From Eisenhower’s vantage point, the space race was not merely a contest of technological prowess—it was a high-stakes game of geopolitical brinkmanship with far-reaching implications. As President, Eisenhower understood the delicate balance of power on the global stage and the risks inherent in escalating tensions with the Soviet Union.

Eisenhower’s letter to President Kennedy reflected his belief that America’s pursuit of space exploration should be guided by prudence, diplomacy, and a commitment to international cooperation. While acknowledging the importance of scientific achievement and technological advancement, Eisenhower urged caution in the pursuit of lunar conquest, advocating instead for a measured approach that prioritized peace and stability.



(This is an excerpt from an upcoming book on the Borman Collection in the EAA Museum. This section, Frank Borman and the Collier Trophy, along with the rest of the book, is due to come out this Spring.  Paying Patreon subscribers get a FREE copy when it comes out this Spring as a thank you for support. Join to read this section plus get access to Interactive Virtual Reality Spacecraft Tours at Spacecraft Interactive Virtual Museum | creating Interactive Virtual Museum Exhibits | Patreon )

Why the Collier Trophy

Frank Borman, a former astronaut and aerospace executive, was awarded the Robert J. Collier Trophy by the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) for his significant achievements in the field of aviation and space exploration. Borman’s receipt of the Collier Trophy was primarily attributed to his role as the commander of the historic Apollo 8 mission. Apollo 8 was the first manned spacecraft to orbit the Moon.

The key reasons why Frank Borman and the Apollo 8 Crew was awarded the Robert J. Collier Trophy were:

The key reasons why Frank Borman and the Apollo 8 Crew was awarded the Robert J. Collier Trophy

The Apollo 8 Mission: Borman’s leadership as the commander of Apollo 8 played a pivotal role in the success of the mission. Apollo 8 was the first crewed spacecraft to leave Earth’s orbit, travel to the Moon, and orbit it. This historic mission laid the groundwork for subsequent lunar landings and represented a significant milestone in space exploration.

(Join to receive your free copy of this e-book. Plus get access to Interactive Virtual Reality Spacecraft Tours at Spacecraft Interactive Virtual Museum. Creating Interactive Virtual Museum Exhibits | Patreon )

History of the Robert J. Collier Trophy

The Robert J. Collier Trophy is an aviation award in the United States, administered by the National Aeronautic Association (NAA). It is considered one of the most prestigious awards in aviation and is awarded annually for the greatest achievement in aeronautics or astronautics in America. 

Frank Borman received the Robert J. Collier Trophy for his role as the commander of the Apollo 8 mission. It marked a historic achievement in space exploration by becoming the first crewed spacecraft to orbit the Moon. His leadership, along with the accomplishments of the mission, significantly advanced the field of aviation and space exploration, making him a deserving recipient of the prestigious award.